RICCARDO Calafiori may be a new name to some Arsenal fans, but his journey to the Premier League is one worth knowing.
From overcoming a serious injury to establishing himself as a top defender, and even creating a unique goal celebration, there’s much more to discover about this rising Italian star.
Riccardo Calafiori is an Italian professional footballer born on May 19, 2002.
He plays as a defender, primarily for Premier League club Arsenal and the Italy national team.
Riccardo began his career at Roma, signing his first contract in 2018.
Despite suffering a serious knee injury in 2018, he made a notable debut in Serie A in August 2020, contributing to a win against Juventus.
Riccardo told Roma TV about his injury: “The journey was definitely the hardest thing I faced.
“I had a knee that was three times the size of the other one, I had a fever, and I felt insecure.”
He scored his first professional goal in December 2020 during a UEFA Europa League match.
Riccardo spent part of the 2021-2022 season on loan at Genoa.
In August 2022, he joined Basel on a permanent deal and played under head coach Alexander Frei.
Returning to Serie A in August 2023, Riccardo signed with Bologna, where he adapted to a centre-back role under Thiago Motta.
His standout performances, including scoring twice against Juventus, helped Bologna qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
In July 2024, he signed a five year deal with Arsenal, marking a significant move to the Premier League.
Riccardo made his debut for the Italy U21 team in September 2021.
He received his first call-up to the senior team in May 2024 and made his debut in June 2024 during a friendly against Turkey.
He was included in Italy’s squad for UEFA Euro 2024.
Riccardo Calafiori has hinted at a unique and playful goal celebration for his time at Arsenal.
During a media day, he was asked about his goal celebration and admitted that he didn’t have one planned.
He was then asked to consider his favourite food for inspiration.
Riccardo has devised a celebration that charmingly mimics twirling spaghetti around a fork, offering a delightful nod to traditional Italian cuisine.
At Arsenal, several players are known for their distinctive goal celebrations.
Gabriel Jesus often celebrates with mimic holding a phone to his ear after scoring, while Bukayo Saka has been known to hold the corner flag.
Meanwhile, Martin Ødegaard frequently places his hands over his ears as part of his celebration.
